While the primary purpose of wearing a mask is to keep you and those around you safe, this isn’t the only purpose they serve. Rather, they are multifunctional objects that serve a variety of purposes. Here is a list of just a few other (hopefully fun!) ways you can incorporate masks into your daily life:
- Express your own personal style! While masks are indeed essential items for safety, they have also become like other articles of clothing in that they can be used to channel your sense of style. Match your blue painted nails with a blue surgical mask. Pair your black sneakers with a black-cloth mask. Are you into more bold looks? There are myriad colors and patterns out there to choose from. Masks can provide a new dimension to pretty much any outfit and give you a unique outlet to express yourself.
- Bring awareness to a cause that’s important to you! There are so many important issues to bring attention to in the world today, and I’m sure that all of you reading this have something that you care about passionately. Maybe contributing to breast cancer awareness during the month of October was important to you. Or maybe you tried to encourage the people in your community to vote. No matter the topic, masks can be a great way to bring attention to issues that you care about—they’re like signs you don’t need to carry!
- Create art! A mask is another canvas for artistic expression. You can repurpose old t-shirts, scrap fabric, rubber bands, and thread to make something amazing and uniquely you! Whether you’re an artist or are just looking for a project that will kill a few hours of quarantine time, masks are a great way to both stretch your creative muscles and display your artistic talent. What other form of art do you know of that can be both beautiful and lifesaving at the same time?
- Connect with others! Who knew that masks could be a way to make new friends? We did! Throughout the month of October, we hosted our “Show Us Your Mask” challenge. If you’re unfamiliar, Show Us Your Mask gave high school and UChicago students the opportunity to submit both mask designs and videos featuring masks to us for the opportunity to win UChicago-themed prizes. Throughout the month of October, we received over 700 different submissions, and it’s been a great way to connect with many of you and to see your creativity in action with mask designs like this and videos like this. If you were one of the people who participated, thank you so much—it was great getting to know you!
Sure, wearing a mask can be inconvenient at times (fogged up glasses, anyone?). However, no matter who we are, it is our responsibility to do our very best to protect both ourselves and those around us. We hope these tips can bring a smile to your face and get you excited about wearing YOUR mask.